For those of you not genetically gifted with perfectly aligned pearly whites, the choice to straighten your teeth becomes an expensive one. Once you have decided to shell out your hard-earned cash for orthodontic work, the choice becomes Invisalign or metal braces. There are pros and cons for both.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is what it sounds like: invisible. For those desiring braces later in life, Invisalign is a popular choice. They are the perfect option for vanity purposes. The treatment consists of a series of aligners that are switched out approximately every two weeks. Each aligner has to be individually manufactured with the exact calculations of your teeth. Everything is custom made.
Costs range depending on each person, but the national average for Invisalign is about $5,000, but can go as low as $3,500. If you have dental insurance, Invisalign will work with your carrier.
What are metal braces?
Metal braces are the traditional orthodontic treatment, a mouth full of metal that everyone can see. Every patient is different, so prices can range significantly depending on the case and what extras you would like to add.
On average, fees for straightening your teeth with metal braces are about $5,400, but can go as high as $7,600. If you desire brackets that match the color of your teeth, you can tack on about $500 to that cost.
For those too self-conscious to wear traditional braces, braces can also be worn on the back of the teeth, where they would not be visible to the public. This will bring up the cost an extra $2,000 to $5,000.
Dental insurance will often cover up to a specific amount of this cost.
Pros of Invisalign Vs braces
Invisalign provides an opportunity to straighten your teeth with no one knowing. You can have your photo taken and flash your teeth, eat without getting food stuck in between the braces, floss regularly with no difficulty, and be as vain as you desire.
Braces on the otherhand will give you the "metal mouth" (as wearers are commonly called) and make eating and flossing difficult as food gets stuck above and on the brackets and wires.
Pros of braces Vs Invisalign
Braces are generally more inexpensive overall, can correct major tooth discrepancies and bridge and crown work, more candidates can wear them, and there is no changing in and out of the braces. They are on your teeth until the orthodontist removes them.
Invisalign can be more expensive; cannot correct major dental work; not everyone is a candidate for Invisalign, especially if significant orthodontic work is necessary; and it requires motivation to finish. Invisalign must be taken out to eat and brush the teeth, and aligners replaced about every two weeks.
Misconceptions
Do not be misguided in your decision to choose braces or Invisalign. Numerous websites discuss cosmetic dentistry and which treatment is best. However, it is an individual choice that is best discussed with your orthodontist and your checkbook.
